Blackbutt to Bunyas

Imagine a journey where by day you explore romantic vineyards, lavender plantations and olive groves, and by night you'll soak in twinkling vistas under clear skies. While this drive is easily completed in two hours, it's far more fun to take your time and enjoy some of Southern Queensland's gastronomic greats on this Grapes and Gourmet Trail.

This journey carries you through an abundant landscape stretching from Blackbutt, to the Booie Range and the Bunyas. Revealing a buffet of produce tended by passionate locals. Foodies can indulge in local artisan morsels and home-made fresh produce, while wine lovers will discover a host of award winning varietals in this developing wine region.

Journey Details

Duration

2.5 Hours

Distance

186 Kilometres

Activities

Camping

Other Information

Family Friendly:

Family friendly – please refer to operator's website for services and facilities.

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Full
Itinerary

Start your journey in Blackbutt, a town rich in history and heritage and framed by native flora and mountain views. Cosy accommodation can be found at a Wiikirri Retreat and don't miss the annual Avocado Festival, a vibrant celebration of agriculture, the beauty of the country side and the local creative community.

Continue the journey to the peanut capital of Queensland, Kingaroy, and visit the Peanut Van which has been serving road trippers and locals since 1969. Food and wine is in abundance in Kingaroy and to experience the best head north to the Booie Range. An area fast gaining a reputation as a tourist must-do thanks to the wineries, cellar doors and boutique accommodation. Soak in the panoramic views from the verandah at Hillview Cottages or taste the local wine at Crane Winery cellar door.

Head South from the Booie Range back into Kingaroy wher you will find a cluster of boutique accommodation, recommendations are for Peppertree Cabins, Bethany Cabins, Taabinga Homestead.

Enjoy a leisurely drive to the up to the majestic Bunya Mountains, this natural wonderland is an offshoot of the Great Dividing Range formed about 30 million years ago and shelter that largest ancient bunya pint forest in the world. Enjoy the pictureesque view and unwind by the outdoor fireplace on the beautiful deck at The Bunyas or rent out a private home from Bunya Mountains Accommodation Centre.

Munga-Thirri National Park, also known as the Simpson Desert, spans 1,012,000 hectares in the arid outback, making it Queensland’s largest protected area.
Parallel wind-blown sand dunes dominate the striking landscape.

With a panorama of giant red sandhills, Windorah is located in the heart of the Channel Country , beside Cooper's Creek. It doesn't get much more 'Outback' than here, with its stunning vistas, picturesque ruins and historical sites.

Possibly outback Queensland's most renowned and remote town, the name Birdsville prompts thoughts of pioneering history and outback adventure in the 'back of beyond'. Once a toll point for stock crossing the Queensland and South Australian border, Birdsville had a pre-federation population of over 300.

Standing at 40 metres in height, and situated just 35km from Birdsville; this famous sand dune provides a challenge for any four wheel drive enthusiast. The first of 1,140 parallel dunes in the Simpson Desert, the spectacular sunsets from the top of Big Red are an experience not to be missed.

Bedourie, meaning ‘dust storm', is a quaint little town with a population of 120 people. Perched on a sand dune and surrounded by Eyre Creek, it is the administrative centre of the huge 95,000 square kilometres of the Diamantina Shire – perfect for a one-of-a-kind getaway.

Stretch your gaze across vast, treeless plains, over sand dunes and along river channels towards low ranges on the horizon. Camp in the shade of a coolabah tree, dreaming at night under endless starry skies of the Maiawali and Karuwali people and travellers along the mighty Diamantina River long ago.

The billabong, located on the edge of town, is a beautiful place to view the outback sunset and you can also enjoy walking, kayaking, swimming or fishing. Across the water is Pelican Point, a small peninsula with a great view of the billabong and its birdlife.

Have your camera ready when you arrive at Deon's Lookout. You will love the spectacular and long-ranging views. With a rest area, public toilets and picnic table, this is a great place to break your journey.

There are a lot of bush yarns and legends in this Outback country, but the people of Boulia reckon the pick of the bunch are the ones about the mysterious Queensland icon, the Min Min Light. Here is a yarn about the Light they would like to share with you.

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Note: Information on listed products and services are provided by the operator and were correct at the time of publishing. Rates are indicative based on the minimum and maximum available prices of products and services. Please visit the operator’s website for further information. All prices quoted are in Australian dollars (AUD).